What is the principle of sovereign immunity?

The principle of sovereign immunity refers to the legal doctrine that prevents individuals from suing the government without its consent. This principle is based on the idea that the government cannot be held liable for actions taken in the exercise of its sovereign functions, thereby protecting municipalities and other governmental entities from litigation that could impede their ability to govern effectively.

In this context, the option highlighting protection for municipalities accurately captures the essence of sovereign immunity, as it emphasizes the legal constraints on actions that could be taken against various government entities. Municipalities benefit from this doctrine as it allows them to operate without the constant threat of lawsuits that could disrupt governmental operations or judicial resources.

Understanding this principle is crucial as it shapes the legal landscape in terms of how citizens may seek redress against government actions, and highlights the complexities involved in accountability and governance.